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10 Places

Theme Parks and Major Attractions

Explore a vibrant selection of theme parks and major attractions in the Smoky Mountains around Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville. These destinations offer engaging entertainment and memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.

Dollywood Pigeon Forge

Dollywood

Top-ranked theme park & coasters

4.7 (24,532 reviews)
place2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
scheduleMon-Sun: 10AM - 9PM
phone(800) 365-5996
languageVisit Website View Details →
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies Gatlinburg

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Shark tunnel & marine life

4.6 (18,420 reviews)
place88 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
scheduleMon-Sun: 9AM - 9PM
phone(865) 430-8808
languageVisit Website View Details →
The Island in Pigeon Forge Pigeon Forge

The Island in Pigeon Forge

Large Entertainment & Shopping Complex

4.7 (15,000 reviews)
place131 The Island Dr, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
scheduleDaily 10am-10pm (varies by season)
phone(865) 286-0119
languageVisit Website View Details →
Soaky Mountain Waterpark Sevierville

Soaky Mountain Waterpark

50-acre waterpark with Tennessee's first coaster

4.5 (8,932 reviews)
place175 Gists Creek Rd, Sevierville, TN 37876
scheduleSeasonal: Mid-May through early September, 10 AM - 7 PM
phone(833) 687-6259
languageVisit Website View Details →
WonderWorks Pigeon Forge

WonderWorks

Interactive exhibits in upside-down building

4.4 (8,932 reviews)
place100 Music Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
scheduleDaily: 10AM-9PM
phone(865) 868-1800
languageVisit Website View Details →
Ober Mountain Gatlinburg

Ober Mountain

Year-round mountain fun and winter sports

4.4 (8,765 reviews)
place1001 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
scheduleMon-Sun: 9AM - 9PM
phone(865) 436-5423
languageVisit Website View Details →
The Track - Pigeon Forge Pigeon Forge

The Track - Pigeon Forge

Go-karts, mini golf, and arcade fun

4.5 (5,186 reviews)
place2575 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
schedule10 AM - 7 PM
phone(865) 453-4777
languageVisit Website View Details →
Anakeesta Gatlinburg

Anakeesta

Mountain Top Theme Park & Views

4.6 (5,000 reviews)
place576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
scheduleDaily 9am-9pm (seasonal)
phone(865) 325-2400
languageVisit Website View Details →
Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud Pigeon Forge

Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud

Lumberjack shows with exciting competitions

4.6 (4,321 reviews)
place2530 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
scheduleShows vary
phone(865) 366-1890
languageVisit Website View Details →
Rowdy Bear Smoky Mountain Snowpark Gatlinburg

Rowdy Bear Smoky Mountain Snowpark

Outdoor snow tubing year-round

4.3 (3,876 reviews)
place1235 E Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
scheduleMon-Sun: 10AM-9PM
phone(865) 325-1555
languageVisit Website View Details →

Picking the Right Theme for Your Group

For Families with Young Kids

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and Wonderworks provide interactive and educational fun suitable for children. The Island Pigeon Forge offers kid-friendly rides and games that keep little ones entertained throughout the day.

For Thrill Seekers

Dollywood features roller coasters and exciting rides, while The Track Pigeon Forge offers go-karts and fast-paced attractions. Ober Mountain has outdoor adventure options including zip lines and climbing walls for adrenaline lovers.

For Water Lovers

Soaky Mountain Waterpark delivers a variety of water slides and pools ideal for cooling off. Nearby water-based activities at The Island Pigeon Forge provide additional splash-worthy entertainment.

For Scenic and Relaxed Outings

Anakeesta Complex combines mountain views with gentle walking trails and shops. It offers a calm setting to enjoy the natural beauty of the Smokies while exploring local dining and shopping.

For Group Outings and Mixed Interests

With 11 attractions including The Track, Wonderworks, and Dollywood, groups can split up based on preferences or plan a full itinerary covering different types of entertainment. Many sites also offer dining and shopping options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours of operation for Dollywood?
Dollywood's hours vary seasonally and by day, typically opening around 10 a.m. and closing between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. It is best to check their official website for current schedules before visiting.
Is Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies suitable for toddlers?
Yes, Ripley’s Aquarium is designed to be family-friendly with exhibits that engage toddlers, such as touch pools and colorful marine displays. Strollers are allowed, making it convenient for families with young children.
Are there indoor attractions in case of bad weather?
Several attractions like Wonderworks and Ripley’s Aquarium are indoors and provide enjoyable experiences regardless of weather. The Island Pigeon Forge also has covered areas and indoor shops to explore.
Do these attractions offer group discounts or packages?
Many attractions, including Dollywood and The Track Pigeon Forge, offer group rates or combo tickets. It is recommended to contact each attraction directly or visit their websites for current deals.
Can I find accommodations near these theme parks and attractions?
Yes, the Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville area offers a range of lodging options including 53 cabins available nearby, providing convenient access to these popular destinations.
Is parking available at major attractions?
Most attractions such as Dollywood, The Island, and Ripley’s Aquarium have dedicated parking lots. Some may charge a fee, so check individual attraction details ahead of your visit.
Are pets allowed at these theme parks and attractions?
Generally, pets are not allowed inside most theme parks and major indoor attractions, with the exception of service animals. It is advisable to verify each location’s pet policy before planning your visit.

Vantage Stays · Smoky Mountain Guide

Theme Parks and Major Attractions

Discover top theme parks and major attractions in the Smoky Mountains near Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville including Dollywood, Ripley's Aquarium, and Soaky Mountain Waterpark.

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10 places3 areasvantagestays.com/explore/theme-parks.html

The Checklist

PlaceRatingHoursPhoneAddress
Gatlinburg
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies4.6 ★Mon-Sun: 9AM - 9PM(865) 430-880888 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Ober Mountain4.4 ★Mon-Sun: 9AM - 9PM(865) 436-54231001 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Anakeesta4.6 ★Daily 9am-9pm (seasonal)(865) 325-2400576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Rowdy Bear Smoky Mountain Snowpark4.3 ★Mon-Sun: 10AM-9PM(865) 325-15551235 E Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Pigeon Forge
Dollywood4.7 ★Mon-Sun: 10AM - 9PM(800) 365-59962700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
The Island in Pigeon Forge4.7 ★Daily 10am-10pm (varies by season)(865) 286-0119131 The Island Dr, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
WonderWorks4.4 ★Daily: 10AM-9PM(865) 868-1800100 Music Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
The Track - Pigeon Forge4.5 ★10 AM - 7 PM(865) 453-47772575 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud4.6 ★Shows vary(865) 366-18902530 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Sevierville
Soaky Mountain Waterpark4.5 ★Seasonal: Mid-May through early September, 10 AM - 7 PM(833) 687-6259175 Gists Creek Rd, Sevierville, TN 37876

Picking the Right One for Your Group

For Families with Young Kids

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and Wonderworks provide interactive and educational fun suitable for children. The Island Pigeon Forge offers kid-friendly rides and games that keep little ones entertained throughout the day.

For Thrill Seekers

Dollywood features roller coasters and exciting rides, while The Track Pigeon Forge offers go-karts and fast-paced attractions. Ober Mountain has outdoor adventure options including zip lines and climbing walls for adrenaline lovers.

For Water Lovers

Soaky Mountain Waterpark delivers a variety of water slides and pools ideal for cooling off. Nearby water-based activities at The Island Pigeon Forge provide additional splash-worthy entertainment.

For Scenic and Relaxed Outings

Anakeesta Complex combines mountain views with gentle walking trails and shops. It offers a calm setting to enjoy the natural beauty of the Smokies while exploring local dining and shopping.

For Group Outings and Mixed Interests

With 11 attractions including The Track, Wonderworks, and Dollywood, groups can split up based on preferences or plan a full itinerary covering different types of entertainment. Many sites also offer dining and shopping options.

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